Rangers defeat Penguins 3-2 in 2nd-round playoff series

PITTSBURGH -- The New York Rangers pulled off a valuable road victory in the opening game of their NHL second-round playoff series at Pittsburgh, beating the Penguins 3-2 in overtime, while Chicago also claimed first blood in its series against Minnesota.

New York's Derick Brassard scored the winner 3:06 into overtime, although it was immediately apparent.

Pouliot and Brad Richards gave the Rangers an early 2-0 lead, while goalie Henrik Lundqvist stopped 34 shots including a Pittsburgh breakaway in the final seconds of regulation time.

Lee Stempniak and James Neal scored for the Penguins to force overtime, while Pittsburgh star Sidney Crosby was held without a goal for the 12th straight playoff game.

Chicago won 5-2 at home against Minnesota, with Patrick Kane scoring two goals for the Blackhawks in the third period, including a terrific dash through the Minnesota zone for the tiebreaking score.

Bryan Bickell also scored twice for the Blackhawks, who have won five in a row after losing their first two playoff games. Marian Hossa had a goal and an assist as the defending Stanley Cup champions made the most of two costly high-sticking penalties on Minnesota defenseman Jonas Brodin.

Clayton Stoner and Kyle Brodziak scored in the third period for Minnesota. The second game of both series will be on Sunday.